The concept of indoor-outdoor living has evolved into a design philosophy aiming to seamlessly merge interior and exterior spaces. Over the past few years, this trend has transformed outdoor areas into extensions of cozy living spaces, introducing softer textures and structural furniture. Sara and Rich Combs, owners of a desert home in Joshua Tree (@thejoshuatreehouse), are exemplars of mastering this fusion. Their boho ’70s vibe indoors inspired them to extend the retro charm to their outdoor oasis.
The Retro Patio Redo
The patio renovation commenced with the introduction of a retro-inspired outdoor coffee table from Article, serving as the catalyst for the entire transformation. Opting for two tile-covered coffee tables, Sara and Rich envisioned a gathering space—perfect for drinks and stargazing. Embracing the ’70s aesthetic, they laid flagstones as the foundation and embarked on crafting a DIY stucco bench to elevate the conversational ambiance they sought.
Stucco Mastery: A DIY Adventure
Venturing into the unknown, Sara and Rich undertook their first stucco project, utilizing insights gained from previous observations. Constructing an L-shaped framework from 2x4s and plywood, they fortified the wooden bench with weatherproofing building paper and steel lath to provide a sturdy foundation for the stucco. After the stucco application and drying, they painted the bench with Behr’s Mannequin Cream.
Stucco-ing Tips and Challenges
Sara and Rich offer valuable advice for aspiring stucco DIYers. Wearing gloves for protection, using a trowel for smoothing, and opting for textured stucco for forgiveness are crucial tips. Sara emphasizes taking it step by step, acknowledging the time-consuming nature of the project. The primary challenge, according to Sara, was sourcing the perfect furniture that resonated with the ’70s aesthetic.
70s Vibes: Design Tips for 2023
Sara’s advice for infusing a ’70s vibe into contemporary spaces includes creating conversational areas for a relaxed feel. Embracing furniture with curvy shapes and sculptural elements pays homage to the era without being overly dated. Additionally, incorporating textures, natural materials, and warm pops of color contributes to a loungey vibe reminiscent of the ’70s. Sara recommends balancing these elements with modern pieces for a fresh contrast.
Personal Touches and Final Reflection
In adding a personal touch to their outdoor haven, Sara and Rich incorporated flea market pottery, Mexican souvenirs, vintage pillows, and custom terry cloth cushions. Reflecting on the project, Sara expresses admiration for the curated outdoor space. While they would adjust the bench’s height to accommodate cushions, the resulting outdoor hangout became a cherished space for connecting with friends and family. Sara concludes, “This has been such a fun space to spend time with friends and family — having a comfortable space to spend time in our garden, and around the fire and under the stars has made being at home feel like a vacation.”
